Pushdown openings with purchase, leverage and gas-tight resealability for can ends

ABSTRACT

An easy-to-open and optionally resealable beverage can end provides opening by pressing downward. An actuator lies flat initially to conform to stackability requirements, but is readily repositionable to a ready-to-open state. 
     In the ready-to-open state a planer surface of the actuator or tab is at a substantial angle to the can&#39;s top. A rigid body is interposed between it and the can&#39;s tear panel. The actuator is secured to the can top. Downward force ruptures the tear panel, opening the can. 
     Using a wide actuator, a shallow protrusion on the actuator enables gas-tight resealability of a can opening. The shallow protrusion has an interrupted helix and fits into the can opening. Providing tab attachment via a radiused slot allows the small degree of rotational movement needed for the helix to be turned and pull the actuator bottom sealingly abutted proximate to the perimeter of the opened area.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims U.S. provisional application 61/188,494 filed onAug. 11, 2008 and PCT/US 09/01503 filed on Mar. 4, 2009 for priority.Both of the above previous applications and U.S. provisional application61/067,906 filed on Mar. 3, 2008 are hereby incorporated by reference intheir entireties.

FIELD

The field of this invention is closures for receptacles particularlythose closures with a frangible portion that breaks along a point orline of weakness.

BACKGROUND

A common category of closures, particularly for aluminum cans containingcarbonated drinks, is the so-called pop-top or stay-on-tab. Typicallythe attached tab initially lies flat against the top surface of the canend and is lifted by its extremity closest to the rim. With one pointheld to the can by a rivet, the tab acts as a lever for applying forceagainst a tear panel. A lifting action causes a line of weaknesssurrounding the tear panel to be severed or ruptured. Both the tab andthe tear panel are retained to the can end, called an “end” or “endwall”. There are many known variations of similar and related closures.

One area of perceived deficiency in existing designs may be in the easeof opening. Opening can be difficult in some cases because of a lack of“purchase” particularly at the initial stage of movement of the tab.Unfortunately this is the point at which the initial rupture of the lineof weakness occurs thereby requiring the greatest effort. It can beparticularly difficult and painful for persons with long fingernails.Long nails tend to magnify the load on the fingernail bed. Using yourfingernails to open current pop-top cans may also damage or breakpolished or decorated fingernails. Opening could also be difficult forthose lacking strength or dexterity.

Many solutions to this problem have been proposed. Some include variantsof a lifted lever design. A feature of some of these designs is that thefull resistive force of the tear panel is only encountered after thelever is raised somewhat to a position providing a slightly improvedpurchase. Other solutions include using purpose-designed tools to open astandard end. Also, there are designs that involve the user pushing downon a structure that is at a small angle to the plane of the can end.These later versions may present problems due to providing littleleverage and having a very short throw.

Another generally present drawback is the inability to reseal a canafter its initial opening. Some approaches that might be adequate toreduce spillage or keep out insects do not seal well enough to keep acarbonated drink from quickly going flat. Proposed designs generallyfall into two classes: (1) a stopper attached or integral to the tabthat has a complementary shape to the dispensing opening and isrepositioned over the opening and simply pressed into it; (2) a plate orother body inside the can that can be repositioned from the outside toblock the opening from underneath.

The latter approach tends to be complicated and would likely interferewith the stackability of the ends. The former relies on a friction fit,possibly augmented by a plastic coating or even a retaining latch. Thoseschemes would tend to either (a) not be gas-tight, (b) be pushed open bythe force of the carbonation, or (c) be so close a fit as to bedifficult to close and re-open.

While the deficiencies mentioned above have given rise to many attemptsat a solution, meeting the constraints for a cost-effective andpractical implementation is difficult. In order to be compatible withexisting can fill and assembly equipment, any structure above or belowthe primary plane of the can end must be extremely low profile to allowstacking of ends. At many steps in a production process ends are stackeddirectly upon each other, rim-to-rim. The protective coating on thebottom of a can end should not get touched by any aspect of the top ofthe can end below it in such a stack. This is to avoid the risk ofcoating damage that would cause an end to be defective

Other constraints involve the cost of manufacturing. Although it mayseem that only a small amount of material is used, the extremely highvolume nature of beverage cans places a premium on each fraction of agram of metal required and each fold or other discrete step in themanufacturing process. A practical solution should avoid an excess ofmaterial, mechanism, and complexity in order to be cost-effective tomanufacture. Last, users are very familiar with the current style of canopenings and are likely to assume that something outwardly resemblingit, in fact, works like the current design. It would be desirable for aproposed new design to address this issue.

SUMMARY

Beverage can ends employing the principles of this invention solve theproblem of easy opening while accommodating the constraints of lowprofile for stackability and of low complexity. They employ an attachedactuator configured to open the can by a short sequence of motions. Aninitial movement presents minimal resistance by not applying an openingforce to the frangible area. The initial movements translate theactuator from a flat or stowed position to an elevated position ofsignificantly improved purchase. That ready-to-open position also hasadequate leverage to allow a modest applied force to easily rupture thefrangible region. The force is transmitted via a rigid member orassembly situated between the actuator and the so-called tear panel, thefrangibly openable region of the can end.

Implementations following the principles of this invention allow theadvantageous modality of pushing downward to impart the opening force. Auser could apply a downward force with the pad of the thumb, heel of thepalm, or any such means as may be desired. Pushing down is a moreconvenient manner of applying force in this case since the user hasunobstructed access to the surface to which the force must be applied.They can also “get their weight behind it” if necessary. Some can endsconsistent with the principles taught herein offer convenient, gas-tightresealability with the inclusion of little additional mechanism ormaterial.

Several approaches consistent with the principles taught herein areavailable for can end and actuator implementations that are initiallysubstantially flat yet readily transform into a significantly uprightposition. The geometry of these upright positions provide an effectiveamount of leverage and adequate travel distance to rupture and thendisplace a tear panel into the can.

Some examples of implementations consistent with this invention includea rigid foot stowed in a depression in the can end. Others includevarious self-erecting rigid foot structures.

Can ends employing the resealability teachings of this invention have agenerally squat cylindrical shaped structure called the “seal lock” thatcan be inserted into an opening. The seal lock can include aninterrupted thread on its inserted portion for urging the actuator tosealing abutment with the surface surrounding the opening. The seal lockmay be a portion of an actuator. Alternatively, urging the sealingsurfaces together may be via inclined plane features of the top panelinteracting with relatively flat under hang aspects of the insertableportion of the seal lock.

One way of sealingly engaging the seal lock is to provide for an amountof rotational degree of freedom about the center of the seal lock toallow turning an interrupted thread and locking the seal. Suitablerotational geometry can be implemented by a structure as low cost as apin in an arcuate slot.

This summary is intended to introduce the inventive concepts, principlesand embodiments, not to define them.

DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows a perspective view of a can with one version of an endconsistent with the teachings of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2 is an enlarged plan view of the end of the can of FIG. 1 in theinitial, closed position;

FIG. 3A is an exploded view of the can end of FIG. 2;

FIG. 3B is an exploded view as in FIG. 3A but from a lower vantagepoint;

FIG. 4A is a cross section view of the end of FIG. 2 taken on the lineA-A;

FIGS. 4B and 4C are the view of 4A with the end in other states ofopenness;

FIG. 5A shows a perspective view of the end of FIG. 2 with theactuator's extremity partially lifted upward from the plane of the toppanel, and FIG. 5B is the same view with the actuator lifted to theextent that the can is opened;

FIG. 5C shows the end of FIG. 2 with the actuator returned to thedrinking position;

FIG. 6A is a perspective view of the end of FIG. 2 with the actuatorturned 45-degrees clockwise from its initial position;

FIG. 6B is a cutaway view along the line B-B of FIG. 6A with theactuator at 90-degrees from its initial position;

FIG. 6C is a cutaway along the line C-C of FIG. 6A with the actuator at135 degrees clockwise from its initial position;

FIG. 6D is an enlarged portion of FIG. 6C;

FIG. 7A is the can end and point of view of FIG. 6A with the actuator atthe 180-degree from stowage position, and ready-to-open; it includes auser's finger in position to press downward on the actuator;

FIGS. 7B and 7C show the can end of FIG. 6A in a just-opened state fromvarious points of view;

FIGS. 7B and 7C are cutaway views along C-C, from a higher and a lowerpoint of view respectively;

FIG. 7D is a perspective view showing only the opened base of the canend of FIG. 2;

FIG. 7E is a perspective view showing the can end of FIG. 2 in thedrinking configuration;

FIGS. 8A, 8B, and 8C are perspective views of a second version of a canend having a self-erecting foot design; the actuator is shownrespectively in the initial position, 135-degree turned position and180-degree, ready-to-open position;

FIG. 9 shows the actuator of the design of FIG. 8A in isolation;

FIGS. 10A, 10B, and 10C are views of the actuator and stop of FIG. 9 (inisolation) from the line Z-Z with reference to the actuator; each showsa different state of rotation of the actuator, respectively at135-degrees, at about 170-degrees, and at 180-degrees in theready-to-open position;

FIG. 11A is a plan view of an alternate third version of a can end inits initial closed state;

FIG. 11B is a perspective view of the can end of FIG. 11A, and FIG. 11Cis an exploded view of that same can end;

FIG. 12A is a plan view and FIG. 12B is a bottom view of only theactuator of FIG. 11A, both reoriented 90-degrees from the view of FIG.11A;

FIG. 12C is a perspective view of the actuator of FIG. 12A from below;

FIG. 12D is an elevation view of the actuator of FIG. 12A along the lineY-Y;

FIG. 13A is a perspective view of only the base of the apparatus of FIG.11A; FIG. 13B is a plan view of that base;

FIG. 14A is a sectional view of the can end of FIG. 11A taken along theline X-X;

FIG. 14B and FIG. 14C are the same view as FIG. 14A but with the devicein its lifted-open state, and its ready-to-be-opened-by-a-downward-pushstate, respectively;

FIG. 15A shows the can end of FIG. 11A in a perspective view in thejust-opened-by-lifting state;

FIG. 15B shows the apparatus and point of view of FIG. 15A with the canend in the ready-to-drink state;

FIGS. 16A and 16B show perspective views of the apparatus of FIG. 11Awith the actuator pivoted from its initial state to a 45-degree and a90-degree position respectively;

FIG. 16C shows the apparatus in ready-to-open-by-pushing state in acutaway along the line D-D of FIG. 11A;

FIG. 16D shows a cutaway along the line D-D in a just-opened-by-pushingstate;

FIGS. 17A and 17B show a plan view of the can end of FIG. 11A,respectively they depict a ready-to-seal state and a sealed state;

FIGS. 17C and 17D show a bottom view of the can end of FIG. 11A;respectively they depict a ready-to-seal state and a sealed state, inthese two figures the tear panel is not shown to better illustrate therelationship of the wings and the opening;

FIGS. 17E-17H are variations of a resealable unit.

FIGS. 17E and 17F are exploded views from above and below respectively.

FIGS. 17G and 17H are bottom plan views in the ready-to-seal and thesealed states respectively.

FIG. 18A, FIG. 18B, FIG. 18C, FIG. 19A, and FIG. 19B illustrate aso-called pile driver embodiment;

FIG. 18A shows a perspective view of the end in an initial state; FIG.18B is a plan view while FIG. 18C shows the actuator-only of FIG. 18Aseparated into constituent portions; FIG. 19A shows an enlarged view ofthe actuator in a 70-degree position and FIG. 19B is in a ready-to-open45-degree position to the tear panel;

FIG. 20A shows a just-opened state in a cutaway view along the line ofL-L of FIG. 18B;

FIG. 20B is a schematic sectional view of the can version of FIG. 18Ashown in the just-opened state, hatching illustrates varioussub-portions of the integral actuator;

FIGS. 21A and 21B depict a fifth version having a reseal feature, bothare perspective views showing states of opening, and 21A has a cut-awayportion to better display the central region of the can end;

FIGS. 22A and 22C show a sixth, so-called “stacked bump” version inperspective;

FIG. 22B shows the stacked bump implementation in plan view;

FIG. 23 shows an exploded, schematic view of only the actuator of thecan end of FIG. 22A;

FIGS. 24A-24C are sectional elevation views along the line W-W of FIG.22B; they depict respectively: the initial state, raised about90-degrees, and ready-to-open;

DETAILED DESCRIPTION Overview

In conjunction with the included drawings this detailed description isintended to impart an understanding of the teachings herein and not todefine their metes and bounds. Six particular implementations, eachillustrating aspects of the present teaching, are presented below. Someof the many possible variations and versions are also described.

The first, second, and third examples are “rotating” versions in that aready-to-open state is obtained via a rotational motion from the initialstate. Some implementations in this category are “two-way” in that theyhave two modes of opening. In those designs one mode of opening involvesrotating an actuator while the other involves lifting an actuator. Theforth, fifth, and sixth examples detailed are “flop-over” versions. Theflop-over designs provide a mode of opening in which the users' initialaction is the familiar tab lifting. However the action that meetsresistance and opens the can results from a downward force imparted tothe tab later in the opening cycle.

As used in this document the terms up, upward, down, and downward are inreference to a can or can end with its bottom standing perpendicularlyto the ground and its openable end facing away from the ground. Distaland central are with regard to the center of the can end's major planeand clockwise and counterclockwise are from an observer looking down onthe upper surface of a can end. Also, the term translate is not limitedto purely linear changes of position.

Rotating Versions

The three initial implementation examples to be described are capable ofopening in two distinct ways. They each have an actuator that pivotsaround a centrally located point of the can end. This pivoting orrotating is initially in a plane parallel to that of the top panel. Thatrotating results in the actuator being disposed in a raised,push-to-open position. The first implementation to be describedoutwardly resembles the current standard design. The secondimplementation has a self-erecting structure and the thirdimplementation has features providing resealability.

First Presented Version—Two-Way Opening Resembling Current Units

This first version resembles current designs at first look but adds anew mode of opening.

Two-Way Opening Example Structure

One version of a can consistent with the teachings herein and which hasa rotating actuator lever is seen in FIG. 1. Secured to a cylindricalvessel 1 which it closes, is a can end 2 comprising a base 3 with apivotally attached elongated actuator 4. The base has an annular rim 5and a generally planer circular end wall or top panel 6. The end is forcovering and closing the open cavity of the vessel. As seen in moredetail in the enlarged plan view of the end in FIG. 2, a generally ovalportion of the top panel functions as a tear panel 7. This portionoccupies about one half of the surface area of the top panel between therim and a centrally located rivet 11. The tear panel is largelyperimeterally delineated from other areas of the top panel by afrangible line of weakness 10 possibly made by scoring or by a partialdie cut. The actuator is secured by a rivet or pin flat against the toppanel.

As seen in FIG. 3A and FIG. 3B, a hole 15 in the actuator to accommodatethe rivet is reinforced by a surrounding donut 13 deformation. That holesets the actuator off into a longer actuator portion 34 and a shorteractuator portion 35. The shorter portion starts at the hole andterminates in an arcuate nose 9. The longer portion starts at the holeand terminates in a finger grip 8, initially proximate to the rim 5.

In the base beneath the actuator's initial position is a ramp pocket 12.This ramp area is a region of the top panel directly opposite the tearpanel. The ramp pocket is seen in the exploded views of FIG. 3A and FIG.3B. It is approximately semicircular in the plane of the top panel andsemi-circumscribes a hole 19 in the base that is proximate to the centerof the top panel. The flat side of the semicircle of the ramp pocket isflush with the adjacent areas of the top panel 6 and ramps downwarduniformly as it extends in the direction of the rim.

As shown in the aforementioned figures, a foot 17 is integral to theactuator and depends from it. The foot's height is fully accommodated bythe deepest part of the ramp pocket 12. This allows the actuator to lieflat against the top panel in its initial position with its foot restingin the ramp pocket. In the implementation pictured in FIG. 3B, the footis a debossed region integral to the actuator. It might also beimplemented as a separate component affixed to the body of the actuator.The tear panel 7 and line of weakness 10 are also shown in FIG. 3A. Thetear panel has a neck 16 region providing a hinge function. Near theneck is a bead or an embossed multiplier bump 14 aspect of the tearpanel. The nose 9 of the actuator rests over this bump in the initialstate.

Cross sectional views along the line A-A of FIG. 2 are seen in FIGS.4A-4C with the apparatus in three different states. FIG. 4A shows theinitial state. The actuator 4 is seen flat against the top panel 6 withits foot 17 resting in the ramp pocket 12. The nose 9 is resting justabove the multiplier bump 14. The just-opened state of one opening modeis seen in FIG. 4B. The tear panel 7 is partially severed from the toppanel and hinged downward. FIG. 4C shows the ready-to-open state whenusing the second method of opening. The actuator is displaced from itsinitial position and the foot, rather than the nose 9, rests on themultiplier bump. In this position the nose rests in the ramp pocket'sfloor.

Two-Way Opening Example Operation

The two methods of opening the present example can end are the familiarlift-to-open method and a push-to-open method.

Lift-to-Open Way—Operation

The lift-to-open method of opening this can end is essentially that ofpopular existing designs. Its inclusion provides many benefits. A noveldesign that looks similar to a traditional unit can avoid userfrustration by allowing optional operation as a traditional unit. Thismode might be said to make this version backward compatible.

FIG. 5A shows the actuator tab 4 being lifted by its finger grip 8 froma plane parallel to the top panel 6. In that mode of opening theactuator is a class 1 lever with the rivet 11 as the fulcrum. The nose 9presses down on the tear panel region 7. The shorter tab portion 35 actsas the resistance arm and the longer tab portion 34 as the effort arm.(These two portions are best indicated in FIG. 3B). As seen in FIG. 5B,when the finger grip is lifted, the line of weakness 10 is severed andthe end is opened. In the particular drinking position shown in FIG. 5C,the actuator has been returned to its initial position out of the way ofthe dispensing opening. Also shown is a frustum shaped pivot-pointsupport 18 between the hole and the ramp floor.

Push-to-Open Way—Operation

To initiate the push-to-open, no-lift mode of operation of the presentversion, the finger grip 8 extremity is first pivoted about the rivet11. The direction can be either clockwise or counterclockwise. Thismotion presents very little resistance. FIG. 6A shows the actuatorrotated to a 45-degree clockwise position. The finger grip end of theactuator is slightly raised from the surface of the top panel. That isdue to its foot 17 being moved in the ramp pocket 12 to a location ofshallower depth and thus raising the grip extremity of the actuatorupward.

As the actuator is further turned through the 90- and 135-degreepositions shown in FIG. 6B, and 6C the finger grip end of the actuatorcontinues to rise and the nose 9 turns and drops into the ramp pocket12. The details of the nose entering the ramp pocket are seen in thepartial, expanded view of FIG. 6D. The nose entering the ramp pocketinsures that minimal resistance is encountered between the nose and thetop panel 6 as the actuator progressively inclines at a greater angledue to the decreasing depth of the ramp pocket.

As mentioned above, when at 180-degrees from its initial position theactuator foot 17 rests on the multiplier bump 14 of the tear panel asseen in FIG. 7A. This is a ready-to-open position. A user could pressdownward on the face of the actuator and sever the tear panel, openingthe can end. This could be done with a finger, palm, first, orotherwise. Many implementations of this scheme may be opened using onlyone hand.

In this mode, opening the longer segment 34 of the actuator isconfigured as a class 2 lever. The fulcrum is the rivet 11 securing oneend of the segment. The portion of the actuator from the rivet to thefoot's 17 effective attachment point acts as the resistance arm and theportion from the foot's effective attachment point to the location ofuser-applied force is the effort arm. While this arrangement does notnecessarily afford more leverage than the standard lift method itmaintains a comparable mechanical advantage.

The geometry of this mode of opening primarily affords a significantlyimproved purchase. By improved purchase it is meant an enhancement inthe ability and ease for a person to apply a force. In thepush-down-to-open way of opening, the direction normal to the surface towhich the user must deliver force is unobstructed and is free to beapproached in a straightforward manner. The force may be delivered witha body part or an implement not unduly limited by size or dimension. Atthe typical physical relationship between a user and a can that userdesires to open, pressing down is much easier than lifting upward. Thisresults in a convenient and easy to open can end.

The just-opened state is seen in FIGS. 7B and 7C showing the tear panel7 hinged downward from the top panel 6. The base 3 only is seen in itsopen state in FIG. 7D. This figure allows a more complete view of thetear panel severed at the line of weakness and hinged at its off centerneck 16. As pictured here, to conveniently drink from the can, theactuator may be moved back to its initial position in this version. Auser can accomplish this either by continued rotation in the initialclockwise direction as seen in FIG. 7D or by reversing the direction andretracing its path. Either motion can return the actuator 4 to itsinitial position, resulting in the ready-to-drink state as seen in FIG.7E. This can end design is symmetric along a line through the centers ofthe multiplier bump 14 and the rivet 11 so the initial opening motionsdescribed above can be performed either clockwise or counterclockwise.

Variations

There are many possible variations of the version described above. Oneis to eliminate the backward compatibly. Another variation would be tomake the design asymmetric allowing only one direction of initialrotation. An asymmetric version might include only one half of the ramppocket 12. This could be combined with an asymmetric actuator tab havingan upturned rest or finger hold on one edge. That design could suggestthe required rotational direction and method of opening to a user.

Second Presented Version—Self-Erecting on Rotation

An implementation seen in FIGS. 8A through FIG. 10C features aself-erecting foot that is established as a side effect of the rotationof an actuator 44 into a ready-to-open position. The self-erecting foot“trips” out of the bottom of the actuator as it is rotated through180-degrees to move into a push-to-open position.

Self-Erecting on Rotation—Structure

In FIG. 8A a version is seen to include a base 43 having a tear panel 47and an elongated actuator 44. The tear panel includes a wedge-shapedstop 150. The actuator is rotatably held to a top panel 46 by a rivet 41or pin. In this design the actuator is asymmetric with a folded footassembly structure 51 of a deformable material extending perpendicularto the major axis of the actuator.

As seen in FIGS. 10A-10C in views taken along the line Z-Z of FIG. 9,the foot assembly 51 shown is implemented as a single continuousmetallic piece formed in the general shape of a parallelogram. One sideof the parallelogram, a top leg 57, is shown as integral to the majorplane of the actuator. Opposite it in the initial state is a footsupport leg 53 that is proximate and parallel to the plane of the toppanel 46. The side facing in the direction of the allowed actuatorrotation is a foot 52 and its opposite side is a base leg 55.

Self-Erecting on Rotation—Operation

FIGS. 8A-8C show this can end version, respectively: in an initialstate, rotated 135-degrees, rotated 180-degrees, and ready-to-open.FIGS. 10A-10C are partial, section views of the unit at approximatelythe 170-degree, 175-degree and 180-degree positions. As mentioned abovethese section views are taken along the line Z-Z of FIG. 9, remainingreferenced to the actuator as it is rotated. FIG. 10A shows a livinghinge point 54 between the foot 52 and the foot support leg 53contacting the stop 50. As further rotational force is applied to theactuator the living hinges at the hinge point and the opposite cornerare bent open and the angles of the other two corners of theparallelogram are correspondingly reduced.

This changing of shape of the foot assembly 51 raises the actuator fromthe plane of the top panel, as seen in FIG. 10B. Further rotation foldsthe shorter base leg 55 backward and generally in the plane of the top,effectively changing the four-sided shape into a three-sided shape. Inits final configuration, seen in FIG. 10C, the base leg is restrictedfrom further deformation by abutting a portion 56 of the underside ofthe actuator and the foot assembly. Together they form the general shapeof an equilateral triangle. This structure provides a rigid footextending from the actuator to the tear panel and completes the canend's transformation to a ready-to-open state.

Constraints are put on the material and structure of the foot assemblyin order for it to bend into position as a foot. The actuator is rotatedwith only a low to moderate force so at least the hinge points need tobe soft. Of course, the most cost effective construction of the footassembly is likely as an integral piece. It must bend into positionrelatively easily but have sufficient strength to effectively carry outits role as a foot when in the ready-to-open configuration. Particularplastics, aluminum, steel, and alloys of these and other metals are wellknown to those skilled in the art as possible materials. Alternatively,the various sub-parts of the foot assembly might be individualcomponents connected by distinct hinges. In that case, the material andconstruction of the sub-components and that of the hinges need not bethe same.

Various complete can end designs that are consistent with this versionmay provide for an effective dispensing or drinking position in variousmanners. The actuator might be broken off, it might be pushed into thecan opening, or it might be snapped into the opening in such aconfiguration as to not block a desired fluid flow. Thoseimplementations would have a thin actuator perimeter with a shape andfeatures complementary to those of the opening and a relatively largeopen central region allowing for the effective flow of liquid.

In some designs it might be desirable to be able to counter-rotate theactuator back to its initial position while unfolding the foot assembly.A design of that nature would put additional constraints on the materialand structure of the foot assembly. They would be such as to provide forthe various hinge points connected with some more constrained hingestructures, at least to the extent of providing for one folding followedby one unfolding.

Third Presented Version—Resealable, Two-Way Opening

The third specific implementation example is also a two-way openingdesign. One way to open is a rotate and then push-to-open mode. Theother way is a so-called “backward compatible”, lift-to-open mode. Inaddition, this example embodiment has the feature of resealability in asecure and gas-tight manner.

Resealable, Two-Way Opening—Structure

This example can end, shown in FIGS. 11A-11C, comprises a base 103 witha pivotally attached, generally planer, asymmetric teardrop shapedactuator 104. The base of this can end has an annular rim 105surrounding a generally circular top panel 106. A tear panel 107occupies a portion of the top panel. That panel is largely perimeterallydelineated from other areas of the top panel by a frangible line ofweakness 110. FIG. 11C shows a closed line of weakness. If a device wasimplemented in that manner it could risk the tear panel completelyseparating from the can end. A portion relatively less weakened, or anincomplete line of weakness setting off a neck would be alternativeapproaches.

A rivet accommodating hole 119 goes through the base proximate to itscenter. An actuator 104 is secured to the top panel 106 by a rivet 111or pin through an arcuate slot 132 in the actuator and the base'shole's. The radiused slot is reinforced by a surrounding oval donut 113deformation. A relatively small arcuate nose 109 is at the extremity ofthe actuator closest to the radiused slot. The distal extremity 108 ofthe teardrop terminates proximate to the rim 105 and has an arcuate edgeof approximately the same radius as the rim's. It may be desirable tomodify the design shown in the drawings to allow a larger finger-hold atthat extremity. The slot 132 in the actuator 104 is generally transverseto the major axis of the actuator. The slot is somewhat skewed from thattransverse axis and is about 85-degrees to the major axis. The plan viewof the actuator in FIG. 12A shows this geometry.

Seen in the exploded view of FIG. 11C is a shallow debossed, roughlytruncated-pear shaped, planer seal lock home 137 area in the base. Thisdepressed area is opposite the tear panel and is of a similar shape andsize as the portion of the actuator under which it sits in the initialstate. Within the seal lock home is an even deeper ramp pocket 112. Thatramp is further described below.

A generally planer bottom face 136 region of the actuator seen in FIG.12B has a somewhat distorted oval shaped area depending from it called aseal lock 133. The seal lock is located towards the distal extremity ofthe actuator with its major axis transverse to the major axis of theactuator bottom face. The seal lock is about 80% the width of theactuator. The particular version shown in FIGS. 12B, 12C, and 12D hastwo wings 134 a 134 b generally on opposite sides of the seal lock andtilted downward. A line from the center of one wing to the center of theother wing would be about 30-degrees off the major axis of the seallock. FIG. 12C is an enlarged perspective view of the underside of theactuator. It shows the seal lock 133, the two wings 134 a 134 b and afoot 117. This foot operates similarly to foot elements described inpreviously presented versions. FIG. 12D is an elevation view from theline Y-Y in FIG. 12A. It shows that both wings are generally tilted awayfrom the bottom surface of the actuator, approximately at an angle offive degrees from the plane of the actuator bottom face 136. Thatdownward angle is lessened at the counterclockwise extreme in comparisonwith the angle at the clockwise extreme of each wing. The result is theconfiguration of an interrupted helix or auger thread.

The base 103 in isolation is shown in a perspective view in FIG. 13A anda plan view is shown in FIG. 13B. The tear panel 107 is seen to have itsmajor axis approximately transverse to the major axis of the seal lockhome 137. Within the tear panel, proximate to the base's hole 119, is araised oval displacement adder or boost 14 about one third the width ofthe tear panel. Centered within the raised boost is a depressed ovalstop 135 with the same orientation as the enclosing oval boost. When thefoot drops into it, this stop provides an alignment function stoppingthe pivoting of the actuator at the proper location. The surroundingoval boost increases the displacement of the primary plane of the tearpanel without requiring a longer foot and deeper pocket. It also servesto strengthen the tear panel and better distribute any downward openingforce of the actuator. The ramp pocket 112 starts flush with the toppanel just outside the line of weakness 110 and proximate to one side ofthe rivet hole 119. It turns in an arcuate manner around the pivot pointsupport 118 as it descends to a depth accommodative of the height of thefoot as the ramp floor extends toward the rim 105.

Similar to the previously described rotating actuator version, thisversion has two modes of opening. The operations are discussed below.FIGS. 14A-14C are cross sectional views of the device of FIG. 11A alltaken along the line X-X. FIG. 14A shows the device in its initial stateas pictured in plan view in FIG. 11A. The actuator 104 is seen flatagainst the top panel 106 with its foot 117 resting in the ramp 112.

FIGS. 14B and 14C depict the two modes of opening. They are analogous tothe modes of opening of a previously presented implementation. In FIG.14B the can has been opened in a manner in which the major axis of theactuator remains in a plane generally perpendicular to the top panel106. The distal end 108 of the actuator is raised and the nose 109 ispushed down to the tear panel. In FIG. 14C, the actuator has beenrotated 180-degrees about the rivet 111 (not visible in these sectionalviews) and the foot 117 is over the depressed stop 135.

Resealable, Two-Way Opening—Operation Lift-to-Open Way

FIG. 15A shows the actuator 104 being lifted, thus creating a leveraction with the rivet 111 as the fulcrum. The nose 109 presses down onthe tear out region 107, the line of weakness 110 is severed and the endis opened. FIG. 15B shows the drinking position with the actuatorreturned to its original, flat position.

Push-to-Open Way

To initiate the push-to-open, low effort mode of operation of thisversion, the actuator 104 is pivoted about the rivet 111 in a clockwisedirection. As seen in FIG. 16A this can be accomplished by a tangentialforce on the finger holds 131 a 131 b. Similar to the previouslydescribed device, the foot 117 (unseen from this view) rides up theramp, raising the distal end 108 of the actuator as it is pivoted. Asthe actuator 104 is further turned through the positions shown in FIGS.16B and 16C, its distal end continues to rise from the plane of the toppanel 106 and the nose 109 turns in to the ramp pocket 112. Thepivot-surrounding oval donut 113 rests on the pivot-point support 118.

When 180-degrees from its initial position, the foot of the actuatorrests on the raised oval boost 114 of the tear panel 107 as seen in FIG.16C and is in a ready-to-open position. A user can press downward on theupward facing surface of the actuator to easily open the container. Thejust-opened state is seen in FIG. 16D showing the tear panel hingeddownward.

To conveniently drink from the can, the actuator 104 is moved back toits initial position by reversing the direction rotation as seen in FIG.15B. The drinking position is the same whether opened by lifting or byrotation.

Reseal—Operation

This implementation has the feature of resealability. The seal lock 133depending from the bottom surface 136 of the actuator 104 is of a sizethat is slightly smaller than the tear panel 107. FIGS. 17A-17Dillustrate the locking action. FIGS. 17A and 17B are plan views. FIGS.17C and 17D are views from below with the tear panel 107 removed forclarity. FIGS. 17A and 17C show the ready-to-lock state, while FIGS. 17Band 17D show the locked state.

To reseal, the actuator is rotated in a clockwise direction 138, as itwas originally turned to open the can. Since the foot 117 no longer hasthe tear panel to ride across, the foot falls into the opening. In thespecific version shown in FIGS. 12B, 12C, and 12D, the last part of theactuator's traverse places the leading wing 134 a under the lip of theopening. The trailing wing 134 b falls into the opening as seen in FIG.17C.

The last action the user takes to complete resealing and to lock inplace is to turn the actuator 104 counterclockwise as diagramed in FIG.17A. In this motion direction 139 the actuator rotates about a pointcentered in the seal lock 133. This motion is allowed and governed bythe radiused slot 132. That slot is a segment of a circle centered atthe center of the seal lock. That small rotation turns the interruptedhelical wings 134 a 134 b under a portion of the opening's lip region130 as seen in FIG. 17D. The wings pull the bottom face 136 of theactuator down tightly flush with the top panel area surrounding theopening. The can end is sealed and locked. To unseal, the steps forsealing are reversed. While ease of unsealing cans consistent with theseteaching is not expected to be an issue, unsealing convenience may beeffected by a build up of carbonation of the top panel.

Variations—Two-Way with Reseal

There are many possible variations of the implementation described aboveconsistent with the teaching of the present disclosure. There could bemore than two wings. An elastomeric material or coating between thebottom surface 136 of the actuator 104 and the top panel's 106 surfacejust outside tear panel 107 may be employed to achieve an improved seal.That optional elastomeric material might be coated on the bottom surfaceof the actuator or might be an aspect of the upper surface of the toppanel, for example. The shape of the opening and seal lock 133 coulddiffer from that presented. A circular opening could allow for ataper-to-taper mating between a raised area of an actuator's bottomsurface and raised area surrounding a tear panel.

Alternatively, rather than being fixed to a tab or actuator, a seal locksimilar to that described above might be rotatably mounted to a tabrather than employing an arcuate slot to provide the second degree offreedom of movement. Rather than rotating an interrupted thread, theinserted portion of a seal lock might be expanded and raised upward by alever or other means on the outside of the can.

Variation—Alternate Site of “Interrupted Thread”

There are other versions with alternate structures used to urge thesealing abutment of the bottom face of an actuator with the surroundingarea. One alternative is to have a seal lock 173 with two or more flattopped underhang protrusions in place of the angled wings. To have thesame screw action as the previously described system, the opposingsurface to the flat underhang portions must have an “interruptedinclined plane” feature. In this version, the area of the top panelsurrounding the opening is configured, possibly by stamping, to havethree or more inclined plane areas 169 a 169 b 169 c along the edge ofthe opening. The interaction of the flat-topped seal lock underhang withthe inclined plane areas of the top panel provides the screw actionsealing force.

FIG. 17E shows an actuator 164 and base 163 exploded in perspective fromabove. FIG. 17F is similar but viewed from below. The three protrusions174 a 174 b 174 c extend straight down from the seal lock 173. Theymight be thought of as in the shape of an upside-down mushroom. Unlikethe wings in previous versions the underhang surfaces are roughlyparallel to the major plane of the seal lock. As mentioned above, thescrew action the perimeter of the opening is comprised of three debossedinclined plane areas 169 a 169 b 169 c.

FIG. 17G is a bottom plan view of the unit in a ready-to-seal state.Note that protrusion 174 a is adjacent to inclined plane area 169 a.Turning the seal lock 173 in a counterclockwise direction 165 (as viewedfrom above) will bring the unit to a sealed state. The pivoting aboutthe center is provided for in an analogous manor as that of thepreviously presented resealable version. The sealed state is shown inFIG. 17H note that the underhang of the protrusion 174 a is engaged bythe openings incline plane 169 a.

Variation—Cupped Spring Washer Approach

In any resealing implementation consistent with the principles herein,regardless of the site of the interrupted inclined plane, if any, it maybe advantageous to employ curved mating areas. To better apply acontinued sealing force, either or both of the top panel regionssurrounding the opening and the sealing face of a seal lock assemblycould have convex aspects that acted much as a Belleville washer.

Making Particular can Ends Consistent with this Teaching

The implementations described are manufacturable by processes well knownto those skilled in the art. Some particular manners of forming a seallock include:

1—Each “wing” (whether it is 2, 3, or more) is started in theprogressive die as a well being stamped into the flat floor of the tabplaced close to the edge in strategic locations. The well may be longand narrow, but not necessarily so. After the well is formed for eachwing it is then folded over and flattened to the outside of the tab sothat it protrudes past the edge of the tab, thus creating an undercut orwing that can grab the underside of the can opening sheet metal once thetab is twisted into sealing position.

2—The sheet metal that the actuator is formed out of is folded under allthe way around the perimeter so as to make a rounded edge and not exposea sharp sheet metal edge. In the areas where a wing is called for on theseal lock, the sheet metal is folded back on itself again to thenprotrude past the edge of the tab. It might be folded back towards thecenter of the tab again to not expose sharp edges. The sheet metal couldbe rolled and then flattened so that there are no sharp, raw, orunfinished edges exposed.

3—Separate wing pieces made of the same material as the tab or actuator(aluminum) are spot welded (or otherwise permanently attached) onto theunderside of the actuator. These pieces might be folded one or moretimes so as not to expose any sharp edges.

4—A formable material such as plastic is made into wing shapes and isthen attached to the underside of an actuator. This could be athermoplastic or thermoset material that is molded then attached.Alternatively a thermoset, such as a fast curing UV curing resin, isformed right on the bottom surface of the actuators while they arerunning through the production line. This might employ a mold to causethe resin to cure in a certain shape. An elastomeric sealant gasketcould be pre-made with the wings and then applied to the bottom of theactuator. The wings could be part of the sealant but of a harderdurometer material.

5—In the case of a seal lock implementation with a flat overhang ratherthan angled wings, another method of forming the seal lock would includestamping an elongated post near the edge of seal lock and hitting the“head” of the post to produce a mushroom shape appendage. Thismanufacturing technique is well known and used in the construction ofrivets used in current pop-top units.

Flop-Over Versions

The previous example implementations provide for rotating into aready-to-open state. The three particular examples that follow use a“flop-over” action rather than rotation in the plane of the actuator toget into configurations of comparable properties.

Forth Presented Version—Pile Driver—Structure

The so-called pile driver can end design example that is illustrated inFIGS. 18A-18C, 19A, 19B, 20A, and 20B, has a can end base 203 with anoval tear panel 207 region of a circular, planar top panel 206. As inother presented embodiments, a frangible line 210 delineates a tearpanel from the rest of the can end. A rivet 211 or pin secures anelongated actuator 204 to the base. The actuator 204 of the unitpictured in FIGS. 18A and 18B is constructed substantially as a singlepart comprised of four segments. The four segments are: (a) an actuatorbase 240, (b) a tab 241, (c) a foot 217, and (d) a foot support 243. Asshown in these figures these segments are interconnected by livinghinges and are a single stamped part.

The actuator is shown in its initial position in the plan view of FIG.18B. FIG. 18C shows only the example actuator 204 isolated and separatedat its internal hinge points. One part of the actuator, the actuatorbase 240, is roughly letter “W” shaped. The two lower peaks areflattened. The center, upward, peak is represented by a circular areasurrounding a hole 215. When secured to the can end base via that hole,the “W” lies flat against the top panel 206. The open side of the W'scenter peak faces the center of the tear panel 207. The largest segmentof the actuator, the tab 241, is shaped similar to an elongated,upside-down letter “U”. The two symmetric extremities of the upside downU are each, respectively, attached to the two symmetric upperextremities of the actuator base's “W”. That attachment is via livinghinges 245 a 245 b with their openable sides facing downward toward thetop panel in the initial state.

The third segment of the actuator, the foot support 243, is also shapedas an upside down letter “U”. This smaller U sets within the larger U ofthe tab 241, both facing in the same direction. The extremities of thefoot support U attach to symmetric locations on the actuator basecorresponding to the regions of the two flattened peaks of the “W”shaped actuator base. Those attachments are also via living hinges 246 a246 b that are openable in the direction towards the top panel 207. Thelast segment, the foot 217, is generally rectangular. At one end it ishingeably connected 260 to the inside extremity of the tab's upside-down“U” shape. At the foot's opposite end a hinge point 247 connects it tothe outside of the foot support's U-shape. The former hinge opens awayfrom the surface of the top panel while the later hinges open towardsthat panel. Details of the construction of the actuator can vary innumerous ways including being composed of multiple subcomponents.

Pile Driver—Operation

To open a can end 202 of the pile driver design of FIG. 18A the userinitiates a positional translation by lifting the tab's extremity 208that is proximate to the rim 205. While this is the same initialmovement with the same purchase as those associated with currentstandard units, the similarity stops there. Unlike in standard units, noforce is applied to the tear region through the range of this firstmovement.

As the tab is raised, the hinges 245 a 245 b between the actuator base240 and the actuator tab 241 open, allowing the tab end of the actuatorto rise from the plane of the top panel 206 with minimal resistance. Nostructure is yet engaging the tear panel 207. In FIG. 19A the hingepoint 247 between the tab and the actuator base is closer to the distalend of the tab than are the foot support's hinge points 246 a 246 b tothat same actuator base. Therefore as the tab rises the distance willshorten between the upper (distal) terminus 248 of the foot-foot supportcombination and its two lower, more central extremities 246 a 246 b.

This shortening forces the foot 217 and foot support 243 to swing out ofthe original plane of the actuator. Due to the directionality of thehinges, the direction of this self-erecting triangle is toward the tearpanel 207. As seen in FIG. 19B, this stage of the rotationaldisplacement of the actuator concludes with the foot support 253 stoppedby the actuator base and the foot approximately normal to the tearpanel. The tab rests over the tear panel at an angle of about 30-degreesto the plane of that panel.

These segments reach this state due to the central portion of the footsupport abutting the actuator base 240 and due to the limits on thehinge connecting the tab and the distal end of the foot. As seen in FIG.19A, the hinge 247 connecting the tab to foot has mutual mating surfaces250 which are mitered. When the hinge reaches the position at whichthese mitered surfaces contact each other, the joint angle hits a limit.

As continued force is applied to the actuator's face, a secondaryhinging within the foot support 243 occurs. FIGS. 20A and 20B are bothviews of the can in the just-opened state. FIG. 20A is a cutaway alongthe line L-L line of FIG. 18B. FIG. 20B is a schematic view of theactuator 204 and tear panel 207. Although the actuator shown is composedof one piece with various segments connected by living hinges, thevarious portions are shown with distinct hatchings for clarity. The footsupport has two portions 252 253 connected by a crease acting as anotherliving hinge 249. With the more central portion of the foot supportstopped by the actuator base at a level orientation, the distal portionof the foot support 252 can hinge downward into the opening as the tearpanel is ruptured and pushed down. This geometry effectively creates ashorter ‘swing radius’ which now causes greater radial displacement ofthe tear tab per unit of displacement of the actuator, thereby clearingthe tab from the opening. In other words, the variable geometryinitially trades off displacement for power, and then vice versa.

Fifth Presented Version—Self-Erecting with Reseal

One example, now described, includes a self-erecting foot andresealability, combining characteristics of some designs describedabove.

Self-Erecting with Reseal—Structure & Operation

This design uses an actuator 304 that is generally oval. Similar toother presented embodiments, the actuator is connected to a can end base302 by a rivet or pin 311. The present actuator comprises an actuatorbase 340, a foot 317, a foot support 343, and an actuator body 341 shownin FIG. 21A. The actuator base, foot support, and foot are eachgenerally rectangular in shape. Hinges connect the foot, foot supportand distal edge of the base, respectively end-to-end in that order.Those two connecting hinges are living hinges in this particular exampleas seen in FIG. 21A. They both open, initially, in the direction of theplane of the top panel. The distal end of the foot is hingeablyconnected to the actuator body. That hinging connection opens in thedirection opposite to that of the top panel.

The actuator body 341 is hingeably attached, at its most central edge,to the actuator base 340 at an edge of the actuator base opposite to theedge to which the foot support 343 is attached. The resulting geometryhas similar properties to that of the pile driver detailed above. Theactions to lift the actuator and flop it over, thereby erecting atriangular structure, are analogous to those of the pile driver. Theready-to-open state with the foot 317 oriented to facilitate applicationof normal force to a tear panel 307 is also analogous to that of thepile driver.

Other features differ from the pile driver, but are in common with theresealable version discussed previously herein. The bottom surface ofthe actuator body 341 is visible in FIG. 21B. It includes a seal lock333 with wings 334 a 334 b in an interrupted helical configuration. Thisstructure can seal the opening in an analogous manner to that of therotate-to-open, resealable design presented above. An arcuate slot 350first provides a degree of freedom of a pivoting movement about thecenter of the can end to allow the seal lock to be moved into positionabove the opening. The slot also provides a degree of rotationalmovement about the center of the seal lock. This allows a turning actionin which the interrupted helix pulls the actuator's bottom surfacesecurely against the top panel.

Sixth Presented Version—Stacked Bumps Stacked Bump Design—Structure

A stacked bump implementation of a flop-over approach is shown in FIGS.22A-22C. Similarly to other herein described versions, a base 403includes top panel 406 region that, in turn, includes a tear panelregion 407. The tear panel has a multiplier bump 414 proximate to thecan end's center. In this version the “foot” is not a singleidentifiable structure or subcomponent. Rather it is formed by thecombined height of three bumps 450 451 452. When in a ready-to-openconfiguration they are stacked, one on top of another.

An elongated actuator 404 is composed of four sections and is attachedflat to the top panel 406. As shown, those four sections are comprisedby a single stamped metal part with living hinges interconnecting thesections. FIG. 23 shows an actuator of this design, for clarity, splitinto its four sections: (1) an upside down U shaped tab 441, (2) asmaller U shaped base 440, (3) a rectangular central leg portion 443,and (4) a rectangular distal leg portion 417. The tab portion and thetwo leg portions each, respectively, have a debossed bump 450 451 452.They are arranged co-linearly. The base and tab are connected by livinghinges 445 a 445 b. The central and distal leg portions are connected bya living hinge 447. The distal edge of the distal leg portion isattached to the inside of the tab's U by a living hinge 448. Anotherliving hinge 446 connects the base to the lower part of the central legportion.

Stacked Bump—Operation

As seen in FIGS. 22A, and 22B, to open, a finger-grip extremity of theactuator 408 is lifted from the surface of the top panel 406. The onlyresistive force at that point of the operation would be a small one frombending the living hinges 445 a 445 b between the actuator tab 441 andthe actuator base 440. This change in the actuator's configurationshortens the distance available for the leg segments. Due to the livinghinge between the legs portions 447 being partially cut from the backside of the actuator, these portions hinge out toward the tear panel 407as the actuator is raised. FIG. 22C shows a perspective view the can endof this version in a ready-to-open state.

In FIGS. 24A-24C the actuator 404 is seen: in its initial position,90-degrees up, and ready-to-open, respectively. The three bumps 450 451452 are located on three distinct portions of the actuator and are seenstacked in FIG. 24C, one upon the other. This occurs when the actuatorhas completed its translation of about 160-degrees. The bumps stacked,together constitute a foot 449, or foot assembly. That foot ispositioned over the multiplier bump 414 of the tear panel 407. The sumof the bumps can transfer a force applied to the actuator tab 441 to thetear panel 407 and open the can.

Those skilled in the art will be aware of materials, techniques andequipment suitable to produce the example embodiments presented as wellas variations on the those examples. This teaching is presented forpurposes of illustration and description but is not intended to beexhaustive or limiting to the forms disclosed. Many modifications andvariations will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art. Theembodiments and versions help to explain the principles of theinvention, the practical application, and to enable others of ordinaryskill in the art to understand it. Various embodiments with variousmodifications as are suited to the particular use contemplated areexpected.

In the following claims, the words “a” and “an” should be taken to mean“at least one” in all cases, even if the wording “at least one” appearsin one or more claims explicitly. The scope of the invention is set outin the claims below.

1. A can end for closing a vessel comprising: (a) a generally planer toppanel having an inner surface for facing into the vessel and an oppositeouter surface, said top panel having an openable region portion that issubstantially delimited from other portions of said top panel by afrangible area of weakness, the frangible area being ruptureable by asuitable, normal, opening force; (b) an elongated, generally planeractuator, non-removably attached to said top panel such that saidactuator is held initially in a substantially flat state against theouter surface of said top panel; (c) a foot connected to said actuator,said foot so connected, shaped and configured such that, in the initialstate, no portion extends above the plane of the top panel to a degreeto effectively impede stackability of can ends; said actuator soconfigured and attached to said top panel as to be readily moveable fromthe initial flat state to a ready-to-open state by one or more usermanually engendered translations during which no appreciable openingforce is inherently applied to the openable region; a ready-to-openstate comprises: i. the major plane of said actuator is at an acuteangle to a substantial portion of the openable region, ii. said foot isinterposed between said actuator and the openable region such that adownward force on said actuator would be mechanically transmitted,through said foot, to the openable region with effective leverage toallow a readily applied degree of manual force to rupture the area ofweakness; further, the configuration of foot and actuator is such thatsufficient travel is permitted for the downward force to displace theopenable area to a degree that effectively opens the can end fordispensing.
 2. The can end of claim 1 wherein the one or more manuallyengendered translations comprise no more than two continuous motions. 3.The can end of claim 1 wherein the one or more manually engenderedtranslations comprise one translation in a single direction thatsubstantially accomplishes the movement from initial state toready-to-open state.
 4. The can end of claim 1 wherein the one or moremanually engendered translations includes lifting a distal terminus ofsaid actuator up from the plane of said top panel and through an angleof greater than 90-degrees in a plane substantially perpendicular to theplane of said top panel; further, that lifting inherently engenders aself-assembly of said foot.
 5. The can end of claim 1 wherein: the oneor more manually engendered translations include rotating said actuatorabout a pivot point in a plane generally at an acute angle of less than90-degrees to the plane of said top panel; further, an effective amountof the actuator rotation inherently places said actuator in aready-to-open state.
 6. The can end of claim 5 wherein the actuatorrotating engenders a self-erecting of the foot.
 7. The can end of claim5 wherein: the foot is protruding substantially perpendicular from themajor plane of said actuator; in the initial flat state said footextends downward into a depressed area of said top panel to a degree tobe effective in allowing said actuator to rest in a flat state; further,the depressed area comprises a ramp configuration such that its surfacedeclines at its edge proximate to the center of the can end from themajor plane of the outer surface of the top panel to a depth effectiveto accommodate the full height of said foot when the actuator is in theinitial state.
 8. The can end of claim 5 further providing an alternatemode of opening comprising: the one or more manually engenderedtranslations further include lifting the distal extremity of saidactuator up from the plane of said top panel; further, the attachment ofsaid actuator to said top panel is such as to constitute a fulcrumproviding a degree of freedom of movement such that said actuator beingraised by its distal extremity causes its opposite extremity portionmove downward toward the openable region to apply an effective leveragedforce to rupture the area of weakness.
 9. A re-closeable can endcomprising: (a) a generally planer top panel for covering the cavity ofa vessel, said top panel having an inner surface for facing into thecavity and an opposite outer surface; said top panel having a generallyco-planer, delimited tear panel portion, the tear panel portion beingopenable by a rupturing force producing an opening of a substantiallypredetermined size, shape, orientation, and location; (b) an elongated,generally planer actuator attached substantially flat to said toppanel's outer surface in an initial state; said actuator having ashallow seal lock protrusion depending from one of its surfaces;further, the seal lock having a size, shape and configuration relativeto the size and shape of the opening such that, if unconstrainedpostionally, the seal lock would be a loose fit in the opening in atleast one orientation; further, said actuator so attached to said toppanel as to allow at least two distinct degrees of freedom of relativemovement comprising: i. a first freedom of movement permitting a manualtranslation of said actuator from the initial state to a state in whichthe actuator and opening region are in parallel planes with the seallock extending through the opening, disposed in a so-calledready-to-seal state; ii. a second freedom of movement permitting, fromthe ready-to-seal state, a rotational movement pivoting about a pointgenerally central to the seal lock and providing a degree of angularrotation to allow the seal lock to be manually pivoted in-place;further, the portion of the seal lock that is below the inner surfacewhen in the ready-to-seal state has shape comprising an interruptedthread, the twisting of which pulls the actuator sealingly down againstthe top panel's outer surface that surrounds the opening.
 10. There-closable can end of claim 9 wherein the interrupted thread iscomprised of two or more opposed wings forming a helix shape.
 11. There-closable can end of claim 9 wherein said first freedom of movement isrotational in a plane approximately parallel to the major plane of thetop panel and centered proximate to the center of said top panel. 12.The re-closeable can end of claim 9 wherein the attachment of saidactuator to said top panel is through an arcuate slot in said actuator;the geometry of the arc of that slot has a center proximate to thecenter of the opening.
 13. The re-closeable can end of claim 9, furthercomprising an elastomeric layer interposed between a surface surroundingthe opening and opposed actuator surface portions, when the actuator issealing against the outer surface.
 14. A pop-top can end comprising: agenerally planer can end base having a region that is openable byapplication of a suitable degree of an opening force normal to the majorplane of that region; a lever initially retained flat against the canend base's upper surface; said lever being user repositionable to aready-to-open state without exerting an opening force; wherein theready-to-open state is of a configuration and orientation such that areadily applied downward force to the lever mechanically transmits anopening force to the opening region with effective leverage andeffective throw travel to open the can end.
 15. The apparatus of claim14 further comprising: a can vessel that said pop-top can end closes andto which it is secured, in combination, comprising a complete can. 16.The can end of claim 14 wherein the ready-to-open state is such that themajor plane of the actuator is at an acute angle to the openable region.17. The can end of claim 14 wherein the repositioning from the initialstate to the ready-to-open state is accomplishable in a single motion.18. A resealable pop-top can end comprising: a generally planar basehaving an openable region, an upper side and a lower side; a generallyplanar tab; a lock having a shape and configuration such that when theopenable region is open: a lower portion of the lock is insertable intothe opening from the upper side with an upper portion of the lockresting on the upper side perimeter of the opening; from that state, anappropriate manual manipulation applied only on the upper side of saidbase can bring aspects of the inserted portion forcefully into contactwith the lower side with a face such that the upper seal portion issealingly pressed against the upper side proximate to the perimeter ofthe opening; further, the lock is an aspect of the generally planer tab,the major plane of which is initially secured flat to the base.
 19. Thecan end of claim 18 wherein said tab is configured to also be useable asa lever in applying a force tending to open the can end.
 20. The can endof claim 18 wherein the securement of said tab to said base is at asingle pivot point, and further, said appropriate manual manipulation isa rotation about the center of the opening region which engages aninclined plane, situated in a plane generally perpendicular to that ofthe open region, with an opposing structure to urge a sealing force. 21.The can end of claim 20 wherein said inclined plane is an aspect of thelower portion of the seal lock.
 22. The can end of claim 20 wherein saidinclined plane is an aspect of the underside of the base, proximate tothe perimeter of the opening.
 23. A readily openable can end withresealability comprising: a generally planer can end with an uppersurface and having an openable region that is openable by application ofa suitable degree of an opening force normal to the major plane of thatregion; a lever initially attached flat against the can end's uppersurface; said lever user-repositionable to a ready-to-open state withoutexerting an opening force; wherein the ready-to-open state is of aconfiguration and orientation such that a readily applied downward forceto the lever mechanically transmits an opening force with adequateleverage and throw to open the can end; further, said lever has a seallock region protruding generally perpendicular to its major plane, saidseal lock having an interrupted thread feature, and being sized andshaped as to be a loose fit in the openable region when open; theattachment of the base and actuator having a degree of freedom ofmovement allowing the actuator to be user-repositionable to place theprotrusion into the opening, achieving a so-called ready-to-seal state;the retention of actuator to base is such that an additional degree offreedom of movement is provided in the ready-to-seal state to allow andguide the seal lock to be rotatable in-place, about its center; the seallock, its interrupted thread feature, and opening, together being soshaped and configured such that a rotation about the center of the seallock engenders a force from the threads against the underside of the canend that surrounds the opening; the force tending to pull the tabagainst the base to seal the opening.
 24. A can end as in claim 23wherein said actuator is repositionable to said ready-to-open state bylifting the actuator extremity in a flop-over motion and separately ispositionable into, and out of, the ready-to-seal state by its rotationsubstantially in the plane of the can end about a point proximate to thecenter of the base; further, said interrupted thread feature comprisesat least two wings in a configuration of a helix.
 25. A method ofopening a pop-top can comprising: i. initiate rotation of a tab in aplane roughly parallel to that of a can end about a point generallycentral to the can end, ii. raising the extremity of the tab aneffective distance from the surface of the can end as a mechanicalside-effect of said rotation, iii. pressing downward on the tab; iv.opening the can as a consequence of forces transmitted via a rigid footfrom said pressing downward on the tab.
 26. The can opening method ofclaim 25 further comprising a ramped floor aspect of the can end and anactuator aspect that is an elongated post generally perpendicular to themajor plane of the actuator, and wherein said rising is urged by saidpost's interaction with the ramped floor upon which it rests.